Fennel

Foeniculum vulgare spp. vulgare var. vulgare

A versatile herb from the kitchen to the apothecary, fennel is traditionally used in herbal medicine to relieve uncomfortable indigestion and support breastmilk production in nursing moms.*

HERBAL BENEFITS

Common Name Bitter Fennel

Family Name Apiaceae

Parts Used Bulb, Fruits (seed), Leaf

Herbal Actions Carminative

Health Benefits Digestion, Pre & Postnatal

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A flavorful herb benefitting digestion to motherhood.

Many ancient cultures throughout history have revered fennel for its charming properties and their belief in its power to bestow long life, courage, strength, and even to ward off evil spirits – all of which may have been hints to the plant’s actual medicinal powers.

In India, Ayurvedic healers praised fennel for its ability to balance the three body types, or doshas. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, practitioners used fennel as a warming herb to address issues related to the stomach. In the Mediterranean region, fennel’s native home, ancient physicians like Hippocrates, Pliny the Elder, and Dioscorides praised fennel for its ability to soothe occasional indigestion and to help mothers in the production of breastmilk.*

While fennel seeds are most commonly used in herbal medicine, every part of fennel, from bulb and stem to leaf and seed has found its way into culinary creations around the world. Sliced into rounds and soaked in simple syrup, fennel stems make for sweet, black licorice-y flavored after-meal candies. Its bulb can be sautéed or baked as a side dish in and of itself or slivered and eaten raw atop salad. Find its seeds stuffed into sausages and bread doughs such as a classic rye loaf. Have you ever been served a spoonful of dried fennel seeds after a rich meal at an Indian restaurant? This classic tradition is the perfect marriage of flavor and function!

Given its relationship to the digestive system and unique flavor, it’s no surprise fennel is infused into so many mealtime traditions.

Products that contain Fennel

Fennel Tea

Relieves Gas and Bloating*

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Mother's Milk® Tea

Promotes Healthy Lactation*

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Belly Comfort® Peppermint Tea

Promotes Healthy Digestion*

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Throat Coat® Sweet Orange Fennel Lozenges

Soothes Sore Throats and Relieves Coughs*

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Smooth Move® Chamomile Tea

Relieves Occasional Constipation*

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Additional Information

Important Precautions:

Avoid fennel if you are allergic to plants in the parsley (Apiaceae) family. As always with new ingredients, consult your healthcare practitioner prior to use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Legal Disclaimer:

The information and other content in this article are designed to provide a general overview of the botany, cultural history, and traditional uses of this herb. It is not intended and should not be construed as health advice. Every person is unique and you should consult with your health care provider before using any herbal product or supplement.

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More Fennel info

Products that contain Fennel

Fennel Tea

Mother's Milk® Tea

Belly Comfort® Peppermint Tea

Throat Coat® Sweet Orange Fennel Lozenges

Smooth Move® Chamomile Tea

Additional Information

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